Spring Compression with Friction · PhysicsBowl 2022 #28
Physics · mechanics
Problem
A spring with spring constant k = 20 kN/m, is used to stop a 50 kg box that is sliding on a horizontal surface. The spring is initially in its equilibrium state. At position A, shown in the top diagram, the box has a speed of 3.0 m/s. The compression of the spring when the box is instantaneously at rest (position B in the bottom diagram) is 120 mm. Determine the coefficient of kinetic friction between the box and the surface.
a. 0.125
b. 0.230
c. 0.245
d. 0.280
e. 0.315